Sergeant Mary Reed

1983 - 2021

Our family is devastated to announce the passing of mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, friend, and soldier Mary Katherine Reed who passed away unexpectedly the night of her 38th birthday, April 12, 2021. Mary Kate was born April 12, 1983 in Everett, WA to Barney and Jane Reed, their eighth and youngest child. She graduated from Marysville-Pilchuck High School in 2001 and subsequently enlisted in the Army in September 2002 where she embarked on a decorated career as a soldier. Mary ultimately achieved the rank of Sergeant Major which she held at the time of her death.

Mary approached everything in her life with a ferocity that was a direct contrast to her small stature. Her toughness and loyalty was immediately evident to anyone who talked to her for more than five minutes. If Mary loved you, she would lie down in traffic for you, no questions asked. If you crossed her or her family, you'd be best advised to duck. This innate toughness and loyalty was a perfect fit for military life. While enlisted, she earned two Bronze Star Medals, two Meritorious Service Medals, five Army Commendation Medals, and three Army achievement medals, in addition to various unit and service medals and ribbons. She also earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology from American Public University and was deployed abroad multiple times, all while keeping a literally spotless house and raising three boys. Her energy could be exhausting to be around, but she always made you feel deeply loved and supported. She fiercely loved her family, especially her three boys. She was simply taken too soon. Our collective heart is broken. Our only solace is that she is once again reunited with her dad, and there's no question he is smiling ear to ear listening to all of Mary's war stories.

Mary was preceded in death by her hero and beloved father, Barney. She is survived by the source of her pride and purpose in this life, her sons Trent, Tyler, and Kendal. She is also survived by her loving mother, Jane (whom she shared a very special bond with being her youngest child), and her siblings Annette (Tim Rice), Mark (Penny), Ken (Michelle), PJ (Anjanette), Beth (Jason Hauck), Sam (Karin), and Zach (Caitlin). She also leaves behind the father of her sons, Delwayne Kirkland, and many friends she held close to her heart including her best friend Kortney Hornberger, and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

A celebration of life Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Everett, WA at 11AM Monday, April 26. A private burial will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation in Mary's name.

May God shed his eternal light on your beautiful soul, Mary.

April 12, 1983 - April 13, 2021